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Broad Run water reclamation facility at night
Broad Run water reclamation facility at night

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day

DEA Drug Take Back Day
October 12, 2026

Protect Our Water and Community: The Proper Way to Dispose of Unused Medications

Water quality starts at the source. That is why Loudoun Water and water utilities around the nation encourage residents to properly dispose of unwanted medications and household chemicals instead of flushing them down the toilet. 

Why Proper Disposal Matters

By safely clearing out your medicine cabinet, you protect both the safety of your loved ones and the health of the local environment. Unless your medicine specifically states you should dispose of it by flushing, consider these safe and effective options:

 

 

3 Ways to Dispose of Unwanted Medication

  1. Drug Take-Back Events

    Participating in local community events is one of the easiest ways to dispose of expired or unwanted drugs safely, anonymously, and for free (no questions asked).

    • Upcoming Event: The next National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is coming up on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

    • Since the inception of the DEA take-back program, over 18,000 pounds of unwanted and unused prescription medications have been safely collected right here in Loudoun County!

  2. Permanent, Year-Round Medication Drop-Off Locations

    If you can’t make it to a Take-Back Day, Loudoun County features several permanent drug collection units available year-round for safely disposing of unused or expired medications (including controlled substances). Local drop boxes can be found at:

    • Loudoun County Sheriff’s Ashburn Station: 20272 Savin Hill Drive, Ashburn

    • Loudoun County Sheriff’s Eastern Loudoun Station: 46620 East Frederick Drive, Sterling

    • Loudoun County Sheriff’s Western Loudoun Station: 47 W. Loudoun Street, Round Hill

    • Loudoun County Dulles South Public Safety Center: 25216 Loudoun County Parkway, Chantilly

    • Leesburg Public Safety Center / Police Department: 65 Plaza Street NE, Leesburg

    • Shenandoah Building: 102 Heritage Way NE, Leesburg

  3. In the Trash (When Take-Back or Drop-Off Isn't Available)

    If drop-off options are not accessible, you can dispose of medications in your household trash by following FDA guidelines (such as mixing them with an unpalatable substance like coffee grounds or kitty litter before sealing them in a bag). You can also utilize the Loudoun County Landfill (for residents only) or approved mail-back programs.

(Note: Medical "sharps," such as needles and syringes, are not accepted at Take-Back events or standard drop boxes. Please check FDA guidelines on how to safely dispose of used sharps.)

For more information on local drop boxes, upcoming community events, and safe disposal methods, visit the Loudoun County Proper Disposal of Unused Medications page or check out the DEA's website.